Sections

Jan 22 The Most Pointless Shutdown In American History

Early Monday, Senate Democrats caved to Republican demands and voted in favor of a temporary spending bill that would keep the government funded through February 8th. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer announced the concession in a press conference following the Senate vote.

Schumer seemed hopeful about the dealing in his speech, "It's a way forward [on DACA]...there is a real pathway to get a bill on the floor and through the Senate." In reality, Democrats receive next to nothing with the deal except for a promise by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell that Republicans will address DACA (Deferred Action for Children Arrivals) and immigration by the early February date.

The conflict arose Friday when Democrats filibustered the Congressional floor in an attempt to force Trump and Republicans to vote for a long-term spending bill that would continue DACA benefits and grant temporary amnesty for DACA parents.

Over the past few days President Trump has hammered Democrats over Twitter stating that, “Democrats are holding our Military hostage over their desire to have unchecked illegal immigration. Can’t let that happen!” Trump also criticized Democrats for “turning down services and security for citizens in favor of services and security nor non- citizens.”

Since the announcement, Senator Schumer has fallen under criticism by fellow Democrats, including House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Kamala Harris (D-CA), and Luis Guttierrez (D-IL). Kamala Harris opined, “The Majority Leader’s comments last night fell far short of the ironclad guarantee I needed to support a stopgap spending bill. … I will do everything in my power to continue to protect DREAMers from deportation.” Continually, Pelosi commented, “I don’t see that there’s any reason — I’m speaking personally and hearing from my members — to support what was put forth.”

Senator Schumer also warned McConnell about abandoning his promise, saying that if he did so he would be betraying both Democrats and some Republican colleagues. McConnell bemoaned the threat commenting, that if Schumer threatens another shutdown immigration reform including a DACA extension will be scrapped from negotiations.

This is a clear win for Republicans. However, if they do not drive home a deal in February that restricts amnesty and limits or weakens DACA, as well as enhance border security and funding for the wall, these next few weeks could quickly go south for Trump and company.